At this point we’re getting to the abilities that the DNP brings in its train, and these fill a long list. Some things, however, are already quite obvious if you take a look at the rear connection panel. It starts on the left with the IEC socket which has a decent mains switch. Right above it we see a massive brass screw terminal for an additional earth lug. A suitable Schuko dummy connector with an extra-thick ground wire is supplied as standard. Depending on the mains connection used, the additional earthing brings more calm into the sound image. Next comes a socket for an external power supply. There are also connections for tethered control commands via Audionet-Link, trigger signal or RS-232. The next block is to receive all kinds of data, either from a LAN cable or the WLAN antenna (supplied as standard), via USB port with iPod interface and via USB 2.0 audio port for audiophile treats up to 192 kilohertz directly from the computer.
Unlimited versatility
On we go with an antenna connection for FM and no less than nine digital audio inputs with one AES/EBU socket and four RCA and TosLink sockets each. The last connection block is dedicated exclusively to analogue in- and outputs, there is one balanced stereo pair for each type. If the optional phono module (450 EUR, MM/MC configurable via jumper) is installed, line input 5 will double as the phono connection with its own earth clamp. Right below it is the large headphone jack socket which is separately switchable and controllable in the menu. Together with the XLR pair we have a total of three stereo pre outs which can also be used in parallel, e.g. for wiring a professional bi-amping setup.
The final pair of output sockets either drives a second listening zone or can be used for professionally driving one or two subwoofers. For this purpose the DNP offers a comprehensive bass management complete with active crossover, room compensation, level and delay time setting. By the way, one selectable input can be switched to »full draught«, the DNP is then merely just a piece of wire. This way it even integrates as a high-end stereo source into a surround system. Considering this wealth of interfaces, it should cater for all tastes.
A little excursus on the subject of current: it does make sense to supply the entire hifi system from a single power outlet so that all components refer to the same ground potential. But unfortunately many power strips have way too few connections. i-fidelity.net has solved the problem in the test cinema with the Oehlbach Powersocket 905, which offers at least eight turned Schuko sockets and also has two USB power connectors to recharge e.g. the iPad and the smartphone. You think that no one needs so many sockets? Well, let’s see: the DNP required up to three sockets – for mains supply, additional earth connection and recharger for the remote control –, add to this two active speakers and one active subwoofer, a Blu-ray player and a TV set ... hey presto, all eight outlets were already occupied. And this although neither a cable or sat receiver nor the server or the router had been plugged in. Therefore a minimum of eight power outlets for the system is definitely reasonable and helps e.g. to minimise ground loops.
